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The Journey Home To Pemberley: A Pride and Prejudice Variation
A chance encounter in the wilds of the North brings more joy to Elizabeth and Mr Darcy than either of them dared hope for. But her world is rocked by blow after blow – and the truth would only cause him pain. ‘I must be cruel only to be kind’ is Elizabeth’s guiding precept, and she chooses her path. Yet time, circumstances, and new acquaintances teach her she had made a terrible mistake. How can she regain what she had lost and rebuild a future with the only man she will ever love, but for whom disguise of every sort is his abhorrence? (New cover. Content unchanged)
335 pages, Paperback
First published September 10, 2019
205 people are currently reading
242 people want to read
About the author
Joana Starnes
21 books247 followersJoana Starnes lives in the south of England with her family. She swapped several hats over the years – physician, lecturer, clinical data analyst – but feels most comfortable in a bonnet. She has been living in Georgian England for decades in her imagination, and plans to continue in that vein till she lays hands on a time machine. She loves to look for glimpses of Pemberley and Jane Austen’s world, and to write about Regency England and Mr Darcy falling in love with Elizabeth Bennet over and over and over again.
She is the author of ten Austen-inspired novels and a contributor to the Quill Ink Anthologies. Joana’s novels are all available on Amazon in Kindle Unlimited and in paperback, and some have also been released in Audible.
You can connect with Joana on: Goodreads ; Facebook ; Twitter ; Instagram ; Website and at Austen Variations or visit Joana’s Facebook page All Roads Lead to Pemberley for places and details that have inspired her novels.
She is the author of ten Austen-inspired novels and a contributor to the Quill Ink Anthologies. Joana’s novels are all available on Amazon in Kindle Unlimited and in paperback, and some have also been released in Audible.
You can connect with Joana on: Goodreads ; Facebook ; Twitter ; Instagram ; Website and at Austen Variations or visit Joana’s Facebook page All Roads Lead to Pemberley for places and details that have inspired her novels.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 80 reviews
February 20, 2020
Know that this is 5+ stars read for me - love Joana Starnes' prose. There is lots of angst which I also love. And now I am reading this story a second time. I did receive an ARC with no requirements in return.
I hope not to spoil this for anyone. The book is long.
My heart went out to both players. The setting is post Hunsford Proposal as Aunt and Uncle Gardiner tour Lake Country with Elizabeth. They meet Darcy when he is brought unconscious into an inn from which he rode away and was then thrown from his horse. Elizabeth has gradually changed her opinion about Darcy and her attachment grows as she sits and cares for him (on the sly) during the first night there. He then accompanies them, acting as a guide, while they complete their tour towards their destination in Lambton. He further invites them to stay at Pemberley, which soon becomes inundated with some expected and unexpected visitors, besides Georgiana and the Colonel. The Gardiner party moves to the inn in Lambton where they had originally planned to reside. There are 2 letters from Jane. Here the news is much worse than in canon.
Although Elizabeth knows what and why she is doing what she does (that is breaking Darcy's heart for a second time) she can see no way clear and knowing the effects her family's misfortune would have on his family she acts as she sees she must. She does not share with him as she did in canon. And then the Bennet family disappears. They no longer live at Longbourn. In their move Elizabeth thinks she will never see him again but life has a way of confusing us, directing us, with no rhyme or reason.
Yes, months later they come into each other's company again. Elizabeth refuses to do anything more than socially necessary while in his presence and that of others. Thus when they meet (unplanned) at night he reproaches her with "...not so much as a kind word from you"...there was a lump in my throat.
This is a book I would say you MUST read.
I have to add that the journey taken by ODC in this variation is both metaphoric and physical...paths coming together and dividing and then again meeting after the rocky road for both. It continues to be difficult but at that point their paths have merged.
2-9-2020: I am now listening to this on Audible. 2-20-20: I finished listening to this again. Such a gripping story!
I hope not to spoil this for anyone. The book is long.
My heart went out to both players. The setting is post Hunsford Proposal as Aunt and Uncle Gardiner tour Lake Country with Elizabeth. They meet Darcy when he is brought unconscious into an inn from which he rode away and was then thrown from his horse. Elizabeth has gradually changed her opinion about Darcy and her attachment grows as she sits and cares for him (on the sly) during the first night there. He then accompanies them, acting as a guide, while they complete their tour towards their destination in Lambton. He further invites them to stay at Pemberley, which soon becomes inundated with some expected and unexpected visitors, besides Georgiana and the Colonel. The Gardiner party moves to the inn in Lambton where they had originally planned to reside. There are 2 letters from Jane. Here the news is much worse than in canon.
Although Elizabeth knows what and why she is doing what she does (that is breaking Darcy's heart for a second time) she can see no way clear and knowing the effects her family's misfortune would have on his family she acts as she sees she must. She does not share with him as she did in canon. And then the Bennet family disappears. They no longer live at Longbourn. In their move Elizabeth thinks she will never see him again but life has a way of confusing us, directing us, with no rhyme or reason.
Yes, months later they come into each other's company again. Elizabeth refuses to do anything more than socially necessary while in his presence and that of others. Thus when they meet (unplanned) at night he reproaches her with "...not so much as a kind word from you"...there was a lump in my throat.
This is a book I would say you MUST read.
I have to add that the journey taken by ODC in this variation is both metaphoric and physical...paths coming together and dividing and then again meeting after the rocky road for both. It continues to be difficult but at that point their paths have merged.
2-9-2020: I am now listening to this on Audible. 2-20-20: I finished listening to this again. Such a gripping story!
September 25, 2019
..
This Pride and Prejudice variation overflows with a bounteous number of uncommon words. I usually enjoy the introduction of uncommon words and lengthy books that include interesting plotline and characters that I have come to know and admire. Needless to say, this did not elicit my usual excitement.
The Journey Home To Pemberley: A Pride and Prejudice Variation Kindle Edition
by Joana Starnes (Author)
Print Length: 523 pages
A chance encounter in the wilds of the North brings more joy to Elizabeth and Mr. Darcy than either of them dared hope for. But her world is rocked by blow after blow – and the truth would only cause him pain. ‘I must be cruel only to be kind’ is Elizabeth’s guiding precept, and she chooses her path. Yet time, circumstances and new acquaintances teach her she had made a terrible mistake.
Although Mr. Darcy and Miss Elizabeth Bennet agreed to forgive one another and encroach on a new beginning, she felt a feeling of vexation, marked by disappointment or humiliation, when it came to the topic of Mr. Bingley and her sister, Jane. With exasperation, Elizabeth concluded that men were all a misguided and aggravating species.
After reading this adventure it seems that both men and women are a misguided and aggravating species. They suffered repeatedly . . . wavering from one extreme to another due to impertinent miscommunication. .
EXCERPT: "Did no one ever tell the pair of you that people talk when they want to learn what others are thinking? Heaven help us! I have never heard anything so ludicrous. I would laugh if your combined folly had not caused so much misery all around. As if the world at large will not give you more than your fair share of trouble and vexation!"
Some of the experiences that vary so much from the original version brought about a feeling of bewilderment and joy. I appreciated the vital interactions that created much more enthusiasm for the story than the original.
The speech was marked by elaborate equivocations when A character was not behaving with prominent frankness. The vocabulary contains a multitude of uncommon words and phrases. This definitely detracted from an easy flow of consumption, making the book seem much longer than the 523 pages it contained. I normally get a kick out of uncommon words and phrases scattered intermittently throughout a period book. However, the uncommon vocabulary interspersed in this volume was in excess even for my preferences.
This sententious book was drawn out extensively with an internal dialogue that went on and on and on. Consequently, I was anxious for the story to finally come to a conclusion.
How can she regain what she had lost and rebuild a future with the only man she will ever love, but for whom disguise of every sort is his abhorrence?
“Her heart overflowing, Elizabeth ran her thumb in a gentle caress over the bold penmanship that was by now as familiar as her own. Just three words—but sometimes three words were enough. He had not gone as far as to plainly write ‘I love you’ lest the note be read by anyone but she. Yet it was all there—the love, the joy, the promise—in other words: ‘Not a dream.’”
The conclusion included faith, love, devotion, and complete contentment in an enchanting union.
This book is currently available through the Amazon Kindle Unlimited program. I would recommend it for devoted Pride and Prejudice readers that like long versions. It is not novella in any way
..
This Pride and Prejudice variation overflows with a bounteous number of uncommon words. I usually enjoy the introduction of uncommon words and lengthy books that include interesting plotline and characters that I have come to know and admire. Needless to say, this did not elicit my usual excitement.
The Journey Home To Pemberley: A Pride and Prejudice Variation Kindle Edition
by Joana Starnes (Author)
Print Length: 523 pages
A chance encounter in the wilds of the North brings more joy to Elizabeth and Mr. Darcy than either of them dared hope for. But her world is rocked by blow after blow – and the truth would only cause him pain. ‘I must be cruel only to be kind’ is Elizabeth’s guiding precept, and she chooses her path. Yet time, circumstances and new acquaintances teach her she had made a terrible mistake.
Although Mr. Darcy and Miss Elizabeth Bennet agreed to forgive one another and encroach on a new beginning, she felt a feeling of vexation, marked by disappointment or humiliation, when it came to the topic of Mr. Bingley and her sister, Jane. With exasperation, Elizabeth concluded that men were all a misguided and aggravating species.
After reading this adventure it seems that both men and women are a misguided and aggravating species. They suffered repeatedly . . . wavering from one extreme to another due to impertinent miscommunication. .
EXCERPT: "Did no one ever tell the pair of you that people talk when they want to learn what others are thinking? Heaven help us! I have never heard anything so ludicrous. I would laugh if your combined folly had not caused so much misery all around. As if the world at large will not give you more than your fair share of trouble and vexation!"
Some of the experiences that vary so much from the original version brought about a feeling of bewilderment and joy. I appreciated the vital interactions that created much more enthusiasm for the story than the original.
The speech was marked by elaborate equivocations when A character was not behaving with prominent frankness. The vocabulary contains a multitude of uncommon words and phrases. This definitely detracted from an easy flow of consumption, making the book seem much longer than the 523 pages it contained. I normally get a kick out of uncommon words and phrases scattered intermittently throughout a period book. However, the uncommon vocabulary interspersed in this volume was in excess even for my preferences.
This sententious book was drawn out extensively with an internal dialogue that went on and on and on. Consequently, I was anxious for the story to finally come to a conclusion.
How can she regain what she had lost and rebuild a future with the only man she will ever love, but for whom disguise of every sort is his abhorrence?
“Her heart overflowing, Elizabeth ran her thumb in a gentle caress over the bold penmanship that was by now as familiar as her own. Just three words—but sometimes three words were enough. He had not gone as far as to plainly write ‘I love you’ lest the note be read by anyone but she. Yet it was all there—the love, the joy, the promise—in other words: ‘Not a dream.’”
The conclusion included faith, love, devotion, and complete contentment in an enchanting union.
This book is currently available through the Amazon Kindle Unlimited program. I would recommend it for devoted Pride and Prejudice readers that like long versions. It is not novella in any way
..
October 23, 2023
We wander for distraction, but we travel for fulfillment. ~ Hilaire Belloc
Joana Starnes has written very good books.
Joana Starnes has written great books.
This book is her Masterpiece.
We begin at the end of an episode of Fitzwilliam Darcy wandering for distraction. He has wandered through the Lake District at the same time as Elizabeth Bennet has traveled for fulfillment with her Gardiner aunt and uncle. They meet at a remote inn after Darcy has been injured.
Darcy’s distraction, of course, is in the wake of his rejected proposal at Hunsford. Elizabeth has long been repentant of her outburst while rejecting that proposal. They reconcile and appear headed for a quick Happy Ever After.
That is, until the episode of Lydia Bennet and George Wickham.
I always like a finish to the Lydia/Wickham situation that does not include their marriage and this one does not. Lydia’s disgrace is even more scandalous than in canon. Her ultimate fate is surely “punishment to fit the crime” – she does not remain the social butterfly!
Once more, Elizabeth must reject Darcy. Again, Darcy wanders for distraction, even farther this time. But if you think Darcy is a wanderer, you must pay attention to the distance Charles Bingley wanders!
I loved this story so much that after I read it on KU, I purchased a permanent copy.
I think you will like it too.
1-13-2020 -- I was lucky to win an Audible edition with Stevie Zimmerman narrating. Thanks, Joana! Loved it.
The most important trip you may take in life is meeting people halfway. ~ Henry Boye
Joana Starnes has written very good books.
Joana Starnes has written great books.
This book is her Masterpiece.
We begin at the end of an episode of Fitzwilliam Darcy wandering for distraction. He has wandered through the Lake District at the same time as Elizabeth Bennet has traveled for fulfillment with her Gardiner aunt and uncle. They meet at a remote inn after Darcy has been injured.
Darcy’s distraction, of course, is in the wake of his rejected proposal at Hunsford. Elizabeth has long been repentant of her outburst while rejecting that proposal. They reconcile and appear headed for a quick Happy Ever After.
That is, until the episode of Lydia Bennet and George Wickham.
I always like a finish to the Lydia/Wickham situation that does not include their marriage and this one does not. Lydia’s disgrace is even more scandalous than in canon. Her ultimate fate is surely “punishment to fit the crime” – she does not remain the social butterfly!
Once more, Elizabeth must reject Darcy. Again, Darcy wanders for distraction, even farther this time. But if you think Darcy is a wanderer, you must pay attention to the distance Charles Bingley wanders!
I loved this story so much that after I read it on KU, I purchased a permanent copy.
I think you will like it too.
1-13-2020 -- I was lucky to win an Audible edition with Stevie Zimmerman narrating. Thanks, Joana! Loved it.
The most important trip you may take in life is meeting people halfway. ~ Henry Boye
October 2, 2019
“The only journey is the one within.” –Rainer Maria Rilke
I read the first few chapters of Joana’s new story on the Austen Variations website and was immediately caught in the new dynamics of her story. It isn’t often that we read where Elizabeth and the Gardiners actually reach their destination of the Lake District. Usually, Mr. Gardiner’s business would only allow them enough time to travel to Derbyshire. This variation was taking us in a completely different direction. I later had the privilege of receiving an ARC [advance-reader-copy] with no expectations of a review. This review is my own opinion.
Rating: MA: it gets a bit steamy. Angst level: high but bearable.
We open with Darcy traveling [wait for it] the Lake District on his way home to Pemberley. He had decided to take the longer scenic route home. His pride was still smarting from the DHP [Disastrous-Hunsford-Proposal] and Elizabeth’s refusal. Anxious to get home, Darcy decided to not take the sage advice of the locals, regarding the district’s weather and was caught in a thunderstorm. A nearby lightning strike, accompanied by a loud clap of thunder, spooked his horse [a skittish thoroughbred borrowed from his Uncle’s stables]. He was thrown, hit a rock wall as he fell, and was left unconscious as the terrified horse turned and headed back to the country inn where it last remembered safety and comfort.
The Gardiners and Elizabeth arrived at the inn just as the storm broke. In short order, Darcy’s fear-crazed horse arrived in the inn’s courtyard and a search party [that included Mr. Gardiner] soon set out to find the missing rider. When they returned with the injured man, Elizabeth immediately recognized him as Mr. Darcy, her Mr. Darcy. Well into the night, she and her aunt assisted the innkeeper’s wife in caring for the unconscious and fevered man. During the days as Darcy healed, we were given that page-time necessary for ODC [our dear couple] to clarify their feelings for each other.
There were many new characters that Elizabeth met in her journeys throughout this story. Many were simply delightful and such good friends to our dear girl [ODG]. Of course, we had the Caroline Bingley clones grappling for Darcy’s attention along with the ever-present matchmaking mamas that rivaled even Mrs. Bennet. It was funny as the Bennet family was in another part of the country and yet we still felt their presence.
The page-time for ODC was amazing and their language to each other nearly brought me to tears. I started to breathe a sigh of relief as they began making progress in resolving their misunderstanding. Then I remembered the timeline for this story. There was a letter somewhere out there from Jane with news that would undermine all the progress ODC had made. When it finally caught up with Lizzy, it contained information that was far worse than what happened in canon. I couldn’t believe it... stupid, stupid Lydia. As our girl continued to read, she saw her life spiral out of control. Shock after shock hit Elizabeth as she realized that marriage to Darcy was now impossible. She could not would not, put him through the shame and degradation that had befallen her family. By now, I had chewed my nails down to the quick and had pulled out most of my hair. Starnes, master that she is, threw everything she had at the reader in this variation. I couldn’t breathe and was near tears on several occasions.
As I reflected on this variation, there was another character that I had not considered. Destiny. It was the thread that ran through the fabric of this story. At every turn, no matter the plans or machinations of ODC, Destiny had a hand in placing these two lovers in proximity to each other. No matter where they turned, the other was inexplicably drawn to that location. It happened throughout the story and was vexatious to both Darcy and Elizabeth. They simply could not escape each other.
The anger and hurt these two experienced were horrendous and I kept wanting it to end. I was anxious for them to work out the details and finally get together. I longed for my D&E time together. I highly recommend this JAFF [Jane-Austen-Fan-Fiction] variation.
I read the first few chapters of Joana’s new story on the Austen Variations website and was immediately caught in the new dynamics of her story. It isn’t often that we read where Elizabeth and the Gardiners actually reach their destination of the Lake District. Usually, Mr. Gardiner’s business would only allow them enough time to travel to Derbyshire. This variation was taking us in a completely different direction. I later had the privilege of receiving an ARC [advance-reader-copy] with no expectations of a review. This review is my own opinion.
Rating: MA: it gets a bit steamy. Angst level: high but bearable.
We open with Darcy traveling [wait for it] the Lake District on his way home to Pemberley. He had decided to take the longer scenic route home. His pride was still smarting from the DHP [Disastrous-Hunsford-Proposal] and Elizabeth’s refusal. Anxious to get home, Darcy decided to not take the sage advice of the locals, regarding the district’s weather and was caught in a thunderstorm. A nearby lightning strike, accompanied by a loud clap of thunder, spooked his horse [a skittish thoroughbred borrowed from his Uncle’s stables]. He was thrown, hit a rock wall as he fell, and was left unconscious as the terrified horse turned and headed back to the country inn where it last remembered safety and comfort.
The Gardiners and Elizabeth arrived at the inn just as the storm broke. In short order, Darcy’s fear-crazed horse arrived in the inn’s courtyard and a search party [that included Mr. Gardiner] soon set out to find the missing rider. When they returned with the injured man, Elizabeth immediately recognized him as Mr. Darcy, her Mr. Darcy. Well into the night, she and her aunt assisted the innkeeper’s wife in caring for the unconscious and fevered man. During the days as Darcy healed, we were given that page-time necessary for ODC [our dear couple] to clarify their feelings for each other.
There were many new characters that Elizabeth met in her journeys throughout this story. Many were simply delightful and such good friends to our dear girl [ODG]. Of course, we had the Caroline Bingley clones grappling for Darcy’s attention along with the ever-present matchmaking mamas that rivaled even Mrs. Bennet. It was funny as the Bennet family was in another part of the country and yet we still felt their presence.
The page-time for ODC was amazing and their language to each other nearly brought me to tears. I started to breathe a sigh of relief as they began making progress in resolving their misunderstanding. Then I remembered the timeline for this story. There was a letter somewhere out there from Jane with news that would undermine all the progress ODC had made. When it finally caught up with Lizzy, it contained information that was far worse than what happened in canon. I couldn’t believe it... stupid, stupid Lydia. As our girl continued to read, she saw her life spiral out of control. Shock after shock hit Elizabeth as she realized that marriage to Darcy was now impossible. She could not would not, put him through the shame and degradation that had befallen her family. By now, I had chewed my nails down to the quick and had pulled out most of my hair. Starnes, master that she is, threw everything she had at the reader in this variation. I couldn’t breathe and was near tears on several occasions.
As I reflected on this variation, there was another character that I had not considered. Destiny. It was the thread that ran through the fabric of this story. At every turn, no matter the plans or machinations of ODC, Destiny had a hand in placing these two lovers in proximity to each other. No matter where they turned, the other was inexplicably drawn to that location. It happened throughout the story and was vexatious to both Darcy and Elizabeth. They simply could not escape each other.
The anger and hurt these two experienced were horrendous and I kept wanting it to end. I was anxious for them to work out the details and finally get together. I longed for my D&E time together. I highly recommend this JAFF [Jane-Austen-Fan-Fiction] variation.
September 15, 2019
This is a truly unique P&P what if that fundamentally changes much of the story following Lizzy’s trip to Hunsford. And that is where we begin, with Mr. Darcy on a solo riding trip through the Lake district in a terrible rain storm. Meanwhile Mr. Gardiner’s business didn’t interfere and he and his wife and their favorite niece are also traveling through the Lakes and take shelter at a remote Inn. And to this Inn will be delivered an injured Darcy, to whom Lizzy will risk everything to nurse him back to health.
This is a book devoid of almost any major character except Darcy and Lizzy and much of it is from Lizzy’s POV. The author takes everything to 11. Lydia doesn’t merely elope, Bingley doesn’t merely go to Scarborough. It is like the heavens above are conspiring against ODC. And the book is like a roller coaster every tine I thought well that should stop the drama and angst for a while suddenly things go from bad to worse. But be assured this isn’t the over the top melodrama some authors subject us to these are really just tiny little changes that have massive repercussions. There is no ‘baddy’ except fate. And Fate is fickle.
Really it is a great story and a well plotted and written book. And the author reuses very little of the source material. BUT and trust me this is THE nit pick of all nit picks. The author simply overuses the word Pray as an Adverb. Not in the religious meaning but it the Regency era substitute for please, as in please do not trouble yourself, or please have a seat. Now you may wonder how many times it is used in the book. 113 One hundred and thirteen. Often twice on a single page or a single conversation. Because I thought I might be over sensitive to this word I decided to check how many times it is used in Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice. 26 Twenty six.
So despise me if you dare but I can’t give it 5 stars
This is a book devoid of almost any major character except Darcy and Lizzy and much of it is from Lizzy’s POV. The author takes everything to 11. Lydia doesn’t merely elope, Bingley doesn’t merely go to Scarborough. It is like the heavens above are conspiring against ODC. And the book is like a roller coaster every tine I thought well that should stop the drama and angst for a while suddenly things go from bad to worse. But be assured this isn’t the over the top melodrama some authors subject us to these are really just tiny little changes that have massive repercussions. There is no ‘baddy’ except fate. And Fate is fickle.
Really it is a great story and a well plotted and written book. And the author reuses very little of the source material. BUT and trust me this is THE nit pick of all nit picks. The author simply overuses the word Pray as an Adverb. Not in the religious meaning but it the Regency era substitute for please, as in please do not trouble yourself, or please have a seat. Now you may wonder how many times it is used in the book. 113 One hundred and thirteen. Often twice on a single page or a single conversation. Because I thought I might be over sensitive to this word I decided to check how many times it is used in Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice. 26 Twenty six.
So despise me if you dare but I can’t give it 5 stars
September 14, 2019
No Cliches for a New Look
Joana Starnes usually has me at "hello." This time, though, I nervously awaited that satisfying " ah-hah" moment. The central mobilizing factor could have been hackneyed. This is not a spoiler...Darcy is injured...Elizabeth cares for him. How many times have #Austenesque readers encountered that plot chestnut? While the timing and the general circumstances are constructed to preclude a decent into predictability, 'tis Ms Starnes' talented maneuvering of all of the characters that offers a denouement of the first act that is compelling and jarring. This makes the center of the novel most rewarding for fans of her interpretations of Pride and Prejudice. Her writing brings equal pleasure., Especially when even the predictable is framed in a new and pleasing manner.
Joana Starnes usually has me at "hello." This time, though, I nervously awaited that satisfying " ah-hah" moment. The central mobilizing factor could have been hackneyed. This is not a spoiler...Darcy is injured...Elizabeth cares for him. How many times have #Austenesque readers encountered that plot chestnut? While the timing and the general circumstances are constructed to preclude a decent into predictability, 'tis Ms Starnes' talented maneuvering of all of the characters that offers a denouement of the first act that is compelling and jarring. This makes the center of the novel most rewarding for fans of her interpretations of Pride and Prejudice. Her writing brings equal pleasure., Especially when even the predictable is framed in a new and pleasing manner.
September 12, 2019
4.5 rounded up to 5 stars
September 24, 2019
In a field of many ardent and talented Jane Austen-inspired authors, we are blessed to be living in such days as these when self-publishing makes it easier for talented writers to find their niche. Starnes has long established her place at the top of several “Favorites” lists with bestsellers like “Mr Bennet’s Dutiful Daughter”, “The Unthinkable Triangle”, and “Miss Darcy’s Companion”. “The Journey Home to Pemberley”, her latest “Pride & Prejudice” reimagining, begs the question: How can Elizabeth Bennet find solace after she gives up the only man she will ever love?
In “The Journey Home to Pemberley”, that holiday to the Lake District with her aunt and uncle Gardiner takes place (remember in canon Mr Gardiner’s business would not allow an extended trip and so they had to content themselves with the celebrated beauties of Derbyshire) and, as Fate would have it, Elizabeth meets with Mr Darcy again. He was thrown from his horse and, when found, he was brought to the same inn where Elizabeth and her relatives have accommodations. While he convalesces, they reconcile their misunderstanding after that unfortunate proposal scene at Hunsford months before when she had strenuously refused him...and now love blooms. Can we dare to hope for a happily-ever-after so soon? Certainly not, as this is only the beginning of their journey. And as Pride & Prejudice-like circumstances arise, Elizabeth selflessly, even foolishly, alters their course:
“She could not inflict that curse upon him—have him bear that shame for as long as Lydia lived—for the rest of their natural lives, rather, for such an enormity would not be forgotten. Nor could she live with him day after day and witness the result. See the opprobrium eating away at him. See the love fading from his eyes. Between the surgeon’s knife and the gangrene’s slow poison, the choice was clear: she would take the knife every time. For his sake as much as hers. Cruel to be kind.”
Months after this folly, she learns what we knew all along: she erred in thinking her sacrifice had protected Darcy, creating only misery of the acutest kind. “Foolish, headstrong and misguided girl! Should you not have known better than to brave this alone?”
Oh Darcy, I couldn’t agree more!
But is Fate unkind throwing Darcy and Elizabeth together time and time again in this soul searching journey from the wilds of the North to Dorsetshire (and beyond) then full circle back to Pemberley? Of course not! We love that kind of push and pull as the tension builds, leaving us nearly breathless in anticipation for this hard won happily-ever-after:
“Her heart overflowing, Elizabeth ran her thumb in a gentle caress over the bold penmanship that was by now as familiar as her own. Just three words—but sometimes three words were enough. He had not gone as far as to plainly write ‘I love you’ lest the note be read by anyone but she. Yet it was all there—the love, the joy, the promise—in other words: ‘Not a dream.’”
(#swoon) Prose like that keep me coming back for more great Austenesque novels! This is author Joana Starnes at her best. For lovers of Darcy and Elizabeth, “The Journey Home to Pemberley” is a MUST READ.
In “The Journey Home to Pemberley”, that holiday to the Lake District with her aunt and uncle Gardiner takes place (remember in canon Mr Gardiner’s business would not allow an extended trip and so they had to content themselves with the celebrated beauties of Derbyshire) and, as Fate would have it, Elizabeth meets with Mr Darcy again. He was thrown from his horse and, when found, he was brought to the same inn where Elizabeth and her relatives have accommodations. While he convalesces, they reconcile their misunderstanding after that unfortunate proposal scene at Hunsford months before when she had strenuously refused him...and now love blooms. Can we dare to hope for a happily-ever-after so soon? Certainly not, as this is only the beginning of their journey. And as Pride & Prejudice-like circumstances arise, Elizabeth selflessly, even foolishly, alters their course:
“She could not inflict that curse upon him—have him bear that shame for as long as Lydia lived—for the rest of their natural lives, rather, for such an enormity would not be forgotten. Nor could she live with him day after day and witness the result. See the opprobrium eating away at him. See the love fading from his eyes. Between the surgeon’s knife and the gangrene’s slow poison, the choice was clear: she would take the knife every time. For his sake as much as hers. Cruel to be kind.”
Months after this folly, she learns what we knew all along: she erred in thinking her sacrifice had protected Darcy, creating only misery of the acutest kind. “Foolish, headstrong and misguided girl! Should you not have known better than to brave this alone?”
Oh Darcy, I couldn’t agree more!
But is Fate unkind throwing Darcy and Elizabeth together time and time again in this soul searching journey from the wilds of the North to Dorsetshire (and beyond) then full circle back to Pemberley? Of course not! We love that kind of push and pull as the tension builds, leaving us nearly breathless in anticipation for this hard won happily-ever-after:
“Her heart overflowing, Elizabeth ran her thumb in a gentle caress over the bold penmanship that was by now as familiar as her own. Just three words—but sometimes three words were enough. He had not gone as far as to plainly write ‘I love you’ lest the note be read by anyone but she. Yet it was all there—the love, the joy, the promise—in other words: ‘Not a dream.’”
(#swoon) Prose like that keep me coming back for more great Austenesque novels! This is author Joana Starnes at her best. For lovers of Darcy and Elizabeth, “The Journey Home to Pemberley” is a MUST READ.
February 13, 2020
What If Elizabeth and the Gardiners Did Go to the Lake District?
TYPE OF NOVEL: Pride and Prejudice Variation
TIME FRAME: Begins while Elizabeth and the Gardiners are in the midst of their summer travels
SYNOPSIS: In her latest stellar Pride and Prejudice variation, Joana Starnes introduces some slight changes in course. Mr. Gardiner is not prevented by business to travel to the Lake District with Elizabeth and his wife as planned. And while journeying south from their tour, the Gardiners and Elizabeth encounter Mr. Darcy at an inn in a most distressing fashion – Mr. Darcy was injured while attempting to ride through a storm and is unconscious! This unexpected encounter fosters some new understandings and opportunities for our dear couple, but what happens when Elizabeth receives some news that destroys her every hope and dream? How do both Darcy and Elizabeth move on from their heart-wrenching and deceptive (on one side) parting?
WHAT I LOVED:
- Lizzy – Daring and Devoted: Lizzy is a woman in action in this variation. She breaks with propriety and acts to protects those she loves. Much of the story is told from Elizabeth’s point-of-view and while it is always thrilling to see Mr. Darcy so in love, I really appreciated this moving portrayal of Elizabeth’s journey to loving Mr. Darcy wholeheartedly. I loved seeing Elizabeth so irrevocably in love – how she gained new insight into Mr. Darcy’s character, could understand his feelings, and be sensitive to his pain and discomfort. In addition, I greatly admire and appreciate that Lizzy’s love for Darcy was so great that she repeatedly strives to do right by him and unselfishly thinks of him over herself. This Elizabeth Bennet is my hero.
- Emotive, Tangible, Intimate: If you read a Joana Starnes novel before then you are well-acquainted with her talent for writing with exceptional eloquence and poignancy. And that talent is on full-display with her descriptions of Elizabeth’s feelings and introspections in this novel There were moments of powerful feeling where the heartache, sorrow, love, and joy felt so vivid and palpable. Ms. Starnes’s skill at capturing and conveying these emotions leaves readers awash with understanding and empathy.
- Taking Us To the Lakes: As one who loves wild beauty and dramatic landscapes, I’m so glad that Joana Starnes brought these characters to the Lake Country. I want to visit Kirkstone Pass and imagine Darcy and Elizabeth meeting there. In addition, I loved the sojourn to Dorsetshire and its impressive cliffs and sandy beaches. These rugged landscapes full of majestic beauty felt wonderfully matched in tone to this in angsty and ardent tale.
- Original Characters: The trip to the Lakes District isn’t the only new course Joana Starnes takes in this variation. And along the way we meet some new friends – I especially enjoyed all the scenes with Mistress Moll, Meg Monkford, and Mr. Howard (who reminded me a bit of Mr. Carson from Downton Abbey!)
- My New Favorite Room at Pemberley: Forget the lake and the temple, I want to visit Mr. Darcy’s private book room and see more heart-stopping scenes take place there! (Seriously, that room needs to be in a movie)
WHAT I WASN’T TOO FOND OF:
Maybe there was a chapter/scene or two that could be trimmed a little, but that didn’t suspend any pleasure of mine.
CONCLUSION:
Joana Starnes once again delivers a sweeping and enthralling Pride and Prejudice variation that is filled with turbulent emotions, empathetic prose, and swoony encounters. I have adored each and every one of Joana Starnes’s stirring and exceptionally ardent romances, and I will forever be grateful for her sensitive and impassioned tales about Mr. Darcy and Elizabeth Bennet.
Austenesque Reviews
TYPE OF NOVEL: Pride and Prejudice Variation
TIME FRAME: Begins while Elizabeth and the Gardiners are in the midst of their summer travels
SYNOPSIS: In her latest stellar Pride and Prejudice variation, Joana Starnes introduces some slight changes in course. Mr. Gardiner is not prevented by business to travel to the Lake District with Elizabeth and his wife as planned. And while journeying south from their tour, the Gardiners and Elizabeth encounter Mr. Darcy at an inn in a most distressing fashion – Mr. Darcy was injured while attempting to ride through a storm and is unconscious! This unexpected encounter fosters some new understandings and opportunities for our dear couple, but what happens when Elizabeth receives some news that destroys her every hope and dream? How do both Darcy and Elizabeth move on from their heart-wrenching and deceptive (on one side) parting?
WHAT I LOVED:
- Lizzy – Daring and Devoted: Lizzy is a woman in action in this variation. She breaks with propriety and acts to protects those she loves. Much of the story is told from Elizabeth’s point-of-view and while it is always thrilling to see Mr. Darcy so in love, I really appreciated this moving portrayal of Elizabeth’s journey to loving Mr. Darcy wholeheartedly. I loved seeing Elizabeth so irrevocably in love – how she gained new insight into Mr. Darcy’s character, could understand his feelings, and be sensitive to his pain and discomfort. In addition, I greatly admire and appreciate that Lizzy’s love for Darcy was so great that she repeatedly strives to do right by him and unselfishly thinks of him over herself. This Elizabeth Bennet is my hero.
- Emotive, Tangible, Intimate: If you read a Joana Starnes novel before then you are well-acquainted with her talent for writing with exceptional eloquence and poignancy. And that talent is on full-display with her descriptions of Elizabeth’s feelings and introspections in this novel There were moments of powerful feeling where the heartache, sorrow, love, and joy felt so vivid and palpable. Ms. Starnes’s skill at capturing and conveying these emotions leaves readers awash with understanding and empathy.
- Taking Us To the Lakes: As one who loves wild beauty and dramatic landscapes, I’m so glad that Joana Starnes brought these characters to the Lake Country. I want to visit Kirkstone Pass and imagine Darcy and Elizabeth meeting there. In addition, I loved the sojourn to Dorsetshire and its impressive cliffs and sandy beaches. These rugged landscapes full of majestic beauty felt wonderfully matched in tone to this in angsty and ardent tale.
- Original Characters: The trip to the Lakes District isn’t the only new course Joana Starnes takes in this variation. And along the way we meet some new friends – I especially enjoyed all the scenes with Mistress Moll, Meg Monkford, and Mr. Howard (who reminded me a bit of Mr. Carson from Downton Abbey!)
- My New Favorite Room at Pemberley: Forget the lake and the temple, I want to visit Mr. Darcy’s private book room and see more heart-stopping scenes take place there! (Seriously, that room needs to be in a movie)
WHAT I WASN’T TOO FOND OF:
Maybe there was a chapter/scene or two that could be trimmed a little, but that didn’t suspend any pleasure of mine.
CONCLUSION:
Joana Starnes once again delivers a sweeping and enthralling Pride and Prejudice variation that is filled with turbulent emotions, empathetic prose, and swoony encounters. I have adored each and every one of Joana Starnes’s stirring and exceptionally ardent romances, and I will forever be grateful for her sensitive and impassioned tales about Mr. Darcy and Elizabeth Bennet.
Austenesque Reviews
September 16, 2019
Another great story
Another great story by one of my favorite authors. I shall post no spoilers or notes for at least 3 weeks.
I recommend the book highly.
As Kitty would say, “It is sooooo romantic”.
Another great story by one of my favorite authors. I shall post no spoilers or notes for at least 3 weeks.
I recommend the book highly.
As Kitty would say, “It is sooooo romantic”.
April 17, 2020
This review was first published on Babblings of a Bookworm: https://babblingsofabookworm.blogspot...
This Pride & Prejudice variation opens with Darcy on his way home to Pemberley from his Uncle's house. Instead of travelling to Derbyshire with Bingley, as in canon, he is alone. Not wishing to stay at a particular inn he decides to press on for home but meets with an accident when he parts company with his borrowed steed. Luckily the horse returns to the inn, where some travellers from down south are not paying the abbreviated visit North as in canon, but are taking a more leisurely tour, as had been originally planned. A search for the rider sees an unconscious Darcy returned to the inn, where he is identified by the woman who last saw him in Kent, following his disastrous marriage proposal to her.
Elizabeth has had so many readings of Darcy's letter that she practically knows it by heart and feels vastly differently towards him than she did at their last meeting:
It had crept upon her oftentimes before, over the last four months, whenever thoughts of him had crept upon her. For she had thought of him. She could not help it.
Darcy, however, feels much the same as he did a few months previously, as Elizabeth very soon comes to realise:
It was no wonder that it should be the most insistent one which kept coming to the fore: the incontrovertible proof that, after all this time and despite everything, he still loved her and kept her in his thoughts.
When Darcy realises that Elizabeth and her relatives are actually headed to Lambton, they travel as one party, seeing the sights and becoming better acquainted. With a new understanding seemingly on the horizon, our dear couple seem to be zooming towards an angst-free happy ever after as they make their meandering way towards Pemberley. The story is light hearted and romantic, the couple are very much on the same page and their biggest obstacle to overcome would appear to be easily surmountable.
Until... the inn at Lambton has two letters for Elizabeth, one of which arrived quite a few days before the Gardiner party did. This means that matters are all the more hopeless than in canon as they have moved on. Elizabeth decides on the course of action that she feels is best, though it's a difficult one which brings her only despair:
Under the thick ice of her trance, anguish squirmed and twisted. It was neither silenced nor subdued. Just frozen for a while. Frozen and sluggish. Yet she knew full will it would revive, savage and deadly, to pierce through the ice and tear her apart.
When Elizabeth returns to Longbourn her family landscape is very changed, and her feelings have been turned upside down. She can see no hope of ever making the Journey Home to Pemberley herself.
This story is a very romantic tale, with a lot of interaction between Elizabeth and Darcy. It's a story very much focused on them and their relationship and all the other characters take a back seat. We go through harmony, acrimony, misunderstandings, silences, arguments, regret, compassion and passion. It's one of those stories where the action is in the thoughts and feelings of the characters. We go through highs and lows of emotion on the inside while far less is happening outwardly. I enjoyed this; sometimes you read a story where there is a lot of unlikely events and dastardly characters but this was dramatic in a much more understated way.
I felt very sorry for Elizabeth, and could certainly understand the motives that prompted her actions, because the disgrace which touched her family was dire. However, sometimes I wanted to give her a talking to! The story is written in the third person but very much from Elizabeth's perspective, which gives the reader a more sympathetic view of her character's thoughts and feelings than you would have had if it had been written from a more neutral perspective.
Canon Darcy may say that he has a resentful temper, but aside from his feelings towards Wickham we don't see evidence of it and this Darcy is almost as skilled as Jane Bennet in his capacity to forgive. It put the balance a little off for me, because I felt that all the misery to both Elizabeth and Darcy was caused by the events and Elizabeth's choices. Darcy did absolutely nothing wrong and he probably suffered the most, poor man!
I liked the characterisations in this story very much. The focus is very strongly on Elizabeth and Darcy, but I thought the other characters were well-drawn.
If you like a very romantic read and a rollercoaster of emotions I would certainly recommend this book. I very much enjoyed it and read it in one bonanza four hour sitting! There are some passionate scenes, but nothing too graphic. I'd rate this as a 4½ star read
This Pride & Prejudice variation opens with Darcy on his way home to Pemberley from his Uncle's house. Instead of travelling to Derbyshire with Bingley, as in canon, he is alone. Not wishing to stay at a particular inn he decides to press on for home but meets with an accident when he parts company with his borrowed steed. Luckily the horse returns to the inn, where some travellers from down south are not paying the abbreviated visit North as in canon, but are taking a more leisurely tour, as had been originally planned. A search for the rider sees an unconscious Darcy returned to the inn, where he is identified by the woman who last saw him in Kent, following his disastrous marriage proposal to her.
Elizabeth has had so many readings of Darcy's letter that she practically knows it by heart and feels vastly differently towards him than she did at their last meeting:
It had crept upon her oftentimes before, over the last four months, whenever thoughts of him had crept upon her. For she had thought of him. She could not help it.
Darcy, however, feels much the same as he did a few months previously, as Elizabeth very soon comes to realise:
It was no wonder that it should be the most insistent one which kept coming to the fore: the incontrovertible proof that, after all this time and despite everything, he still loved her and kept her in his thoughts.
When Darcy realises that Elizabeth and her relatives are actually headed to Lambton, they travel as one party, seeing the sights and becoming better acquainted. With a new understanding seemingly on the horizon, our dear couple seem to be zooming towards an angst-free happy ever after as they make their meandering way towards Pemberley. The story is light hearted and romantic, the couple are very much on the same page and their biggest obstacle to overcome would appear to be easily surmountable.
Until... the inn at Lambton has two letters for Elizabeth, one of which arrived quite a few days before the Gardiner party did. This means that matters are all the more hopeless than in canon as they have moved on. Elizabeth decides on the course of action that she feels is best, though it's a difficult one which brings her only despair:
Under the thick ice of her trance, anguish squirmed and twisted. It was neither silenced nor subdued. Just frozen for a while. Frozen and sluggish. Yet she knew full will it would revive, savage and deadly, to pierce through the ice and tear her apart.
When Elizabeth returns to Longbourn her family landscape is very changed, and her feelings have been turned upside down. She can see no hope of ever making the Journey Home to Pemberley herself.
This story is a very romantic tale, with a lot of interaction between Elizabeth and Darcy. It's a story very much focused on them and their relationship and all the other characters take a back seat. We go through harmony, acrimony, misunderstandings, silences, arguments, regret, compassion and passion. It's one of those stories where the action is in the thoughts and feelings of the characters. We go through highs and lows of emotion on the inside while far less is happening outwardly. I enjoyed this; sometimes you read a story where there is a lot of unlikely events and dastardly characters but this was dramatic in a much more understated way.
I felt very sorry for Elizabeth, and could certainly understand the motives that prompted her actions, because the disgrace which touched her family was dire. However, sometimes I wanted to give her a talking to! The story is written in the third person but very much from Elizabeth's perspective, which gives the reader a more sympathetic view of her character's thoughts and feelings than you would have had if it had been written from a more neutral perspective.
Canon Darcy may say that he has a resentful temper, but aside from his feelings towards Wickham we don't see evidence of it and this Darcy is almost as skilled as Jane Bennet in his capacity to forgive. It put the balance a little off for me, because I felt that all the misery to both Elizabeth and Darcy was caused by the events and Elizabeth's choices. Darcy did absolutely nothing wrong and he probably suffered the most, poor man!
I liked the characterisations in this story very much. The focus is very strongly on Elizabeth and Darcy, but I thought the other characters were well-drawn.
If you like a very romantic read and a rollercoaster of emotions I would certainly recommend this book. I very much enjoyed it and read it in one bonanza four hour sitting! There are some passionate scenes, but nothing too graphic. I'd rate this as a 4½ star read
October 26, 2019
5++++
"He could see his errors now and the flaws in his character and judgement but it made no difference. He could not change what had come to pass." (quote from the book)
Months after the disastrous Hunsford proposal and visiting with his relatives, little does Mr. Darcy know that his long journey home to Pemberley will be upended. Little does he know that Miss Elizabeth Bennet is more than a thought away.
"Even now, despite their painful history, there she was, listening to the compelling chorus of inner voices whispering 'what if' --- and did not seek to silence them, but allowed them to lure her into sweet insanity of contemplating pressing her lips to his." (quote from the book)
'What if'...two simple words that has sparked the imagination of many, and I bow down before the Queen of Angst, Joana Starnes, for creating an excruciatingly, tortuous but exquisite journey for Mr. Darcy and Miss Elizabeth Bennet.
Her writing is compelling and flows from her pen as her imagination takes us down a path not taken before. Her descriptive verse is atmospheric and brings to life the scenery and emotions of our beloved characters. I felt I was experiencing every emotion Elizabeth did. Oh, the tears I cried that blurred the pages as my heart broke for her and Mr. Darcy. I squirmed in my chair, held my breath when my heart was in my throat, and I chuckled along with her, for there is lightness amongst the dark.
"And what was with the thumping in her chest? Preposterous, all this --- wild beatings at her heart and such tremblings and flutterings all over her." (quote from the book)
But this is more than just a journey home to Pemberley, this is a journey of two hearts and minds that cannot find solace without the other. Two hearts and minds that were destined to be together.
"All I can say is that I have made hasty judgements in the past, and I was proven wrong. I do wish I knew what I was about. As yet, I do not. But I am looking forward to finding out." (quote from the book)
Such prophetic words indeed. Ones that I encourage you to follow to find out for yourself why Ms. Starnes is the Queen of Angst.
I received this book as a gift.
July 14, 2023
A Good Story
Reviewed in Canada on September 14, 2019
Five stars for the beginning and ending chapters of this book. Four stars for the remaining chapters. Ms. Starnes writes a very good story, but as in some of her other tales, which I have also enjoyed, I do find them a bit long in the narrative and lacking in enough dialogue. What there was of it in this book, I enjoyed immensely and I would love to see more of it in future writings. In this particular tale, there was so much narrative surrounding Elizabeth’s feelings, we had to wait what seemed an eternity to find out what Darcy was feeling all those months separated from her. I would have also enjoyed more of a reunion between Jane and Bingley, instead of more narrative of Mrs. Reynolds’ observations of them. All this to say, I did indeed love the story, but as a lover of more dialogue, especially when well written, and less narrative, I was a bit disappointed. I do recommend it. More dialogue please and I promise five stars.
July 13-14, 2023 - Audiobook
Stevie Zimmerman does another excellent performance. It has been awhile since my above review. With the audiobook, the chapters between the beginning and ending chapters as I mentioned above didn’t seem so long with the audio version. This really is a great story, and when it comes to ‘narrative’, Joana Starnes really knows how to express the passion of our dear couple without getting overly graphic. The prose in this regard simply paints a beautiful picture of their love. Highly recommend the audio version.
Reviewed in Canada on September 14, 2019
Five stars for the beginning and ending chapters of this book. Four stars for the remaining chapters. Ms. Starnes writes a very good story, but as in some of her other tales, which I have also enjoyed, I do find them a bit long in the narrative and lacking in enough dialogue. What there was of it in this book, I enjoyed immensely and I would love to see more of it in future writings. In this particular tale, there was so much narrative surrounding Elizabeth’s feelings, we had to wait what seemed an eternity to find out what Darcy was feeling all those months separated from her. I would have also enjoyed more of a reunion between Jane and Bingley, instead of more narrative of Mrs. Reynolds’ observations of them. All this to say, I did indeed love the story, but as a lover of more dialogue, especially when well written, and less narrative, I was a bit disappointed. I do recommend it. More dialogue please and I promise five stars.
July 13-14, 2023 - Audiobook
Stevie Zimmerman does another excellent performance. It has been awhile since my above review. With the audiobook, the chapters between the beginning and ending chapters as I mentioned above didn’t seem so long with the audio version. This really is a great story, and when it comes to ‘narrative’, Joana Starnes really knows how to express the passion of our dear couple without getting overly graphic. The prose in this regard simply paints a beautiful picture of their love. Highly recommend the audio version.
August 30, 2020
I just loved this book so much... but feel a little emotionally exhausted! I started this book expecting it to be full of angst, drama, misunderstandings and impossible situations which I have come to expect from this author.... so couldn't actually believe it when Elizabeth and Darcy start sorting their problems out straight away. They meet in an inn in the Lake District - Elizabeth is with the Gardiners, Darcy is injured after darling from horse riding recklessly all over the countryside due to heart break.... it's beautifully lovely and romantic... but then Joanna Starnes sticks the knife in Elizabeth's heart, then Darcy's heart and twists it!!!.... I was so devastated for both of them.
So it seems things are impossible, Darcy and Elizabeth's paths cross but it seems this time he cannot forgive her and she cannot tell him the truth. What a mess... of course, true love will always find a way and when it does it's just so lovely!!
This book should come with some kind of health warning.... it's a long book but I could not put it down!! It's just brilliant and all fans of the genre will love it - I just know it!!
I just finished listening to this on Audible- I read it the first time around and listened the second time. The performance is brilliant and really brings the story to life. I'd definately recommend it for fans of audiobooks!
So it seems things are impossible, Darcy and Elizabeth's paths cross but it seems this time he cannot forgive her and she cannot tell him the truth. What a mess... of course, true love will always find a way and when it does it's just so lovely!!
This book should come with some kind of health warning.... it's a long book but I could not put it down!! It's just brilliant and all fans of the genre will love it - I just know it!!
I just finished listening to this on Audible- I read it the first time around and listened the second time. The performance is brilliant and really brings the story to life. I'd definately recommend it for fans of audiobooks!
April 30, 2023
WOW. 10 ⭐️
Ms Starnes had me on pins and needles whilst on the edge of my seat tearing at my poor cuticles.
OFFICIALLY TIED with Ms D’Orazio’s _The Best Part of Love_ for my favorite JAFF to date.
Rather than summarizing I’d like to recall favorite moments and observations:
I loved how Darcy and Elizabeth (she is definitely Elizabeth in this story, not Lizzy) found their way to happiness early in the story and then have that beautiful happiness ripped from them.
The angst, the angst, the incredible angst.
At times it was almost unbearable. I don’t know what that says about me as a person but I LOVE IT.
One passage that comes to mind: they are sailing with the Monkfords, Darcy, Elizabeth et al and Elizabeth nearly falls when the boat is rocking from the waves and Darcy reaches out to steady her. At this point in the story, the tension is so high that this contact is like electricity between them.
Pages and pages of thoughtful narrative and imagery, small nuances that build and build. It’s excellent story telling.
Many significant changes to canon but absolutely necessary for the telling of this story….ie, SPOILERS!
☕️
☕️
☕️
☕️
☕️
Mrs Bennet dies after learning of Lydia’s “elopement.”
Lydia does not marry Wickham but becomes another man’s paramour and much flaunted all over London.
Fantastic set of new characters, I especially was fond of little Meg.
As one reviewer said, it’s Ms Starnes masterpiece. I haven’t read nearly all of her work, which I absolutely will. I like to savor each of her books; I find I do this with favorite authors and give each of their books their own time. As hard as I try, I tear through them so fast. But that’s ok, I love to reread favorites.
Has more than earned a spot on the bookshelf.
Ms Starnes had me on pins and needles whilst on the edge of my seat tearing at my poor cuticles.
OFFICIALLY TIED with Ms D’Orazio’s _The Best Part of Love_ for my favorite JAFF to date.
Rather than summarizing I’d like to recall favorite moments and observations:
I loved how Darcy and Elizabeth (she is definitely Elizabeth in this story, not Lizzy) found their way to happiness early in the story and then have that beautiful happiness ripped from them.
The angst, the angst, the incredible angst.
At times it was almost unbearable. I don’t know what that says about me as a person but I LOVE IT.
One passage that comes to mind: they are sailing with the Monkfords, Darcy, Elizabeth et al and Elizabeth nearly falls when the boat is rocking from the waves and Darcy reaches out to steady her. At this point in the story, the tension is so high that this contact is like electricity between them.
Pages and pages of thoughtful narrative and imagery, small nuances that build and build. It’s excellent story telling.
Many significant changes to canon but absolutely necessary for the telling of this story….ie, SPOILERS!
☕️
☕️
☕️
☕️
☕️
Mrs Bennet dies after learning of Lydia’s “elopement.”
Lydia does not marry Wickham but becomes another man’s paramour and much flaunted all over London.
Fantastic set of new characters, I especially was fond of little Meg.
As one reviewer said, it’s Ms Starnes masterpiece. I haven’t read nearly all of her work, which I absolutely will. I like to savor each of her books; I find I do this with favorite authors and give each of their books their own time. As hard as I try, I tear through them so fast. But that’s ok, I love to reread favorites.
Has more than earned a spot on the bookshelf.
December 15, 2019
This is the best one yet! I love all of Joana Starnes books but, this one is 5plus stars for me. Keep this tissues at hand while reading this book. I have read this book twice already.
The story begins after the Hunsford rejection of Darcy’s proposal to Elizabeth. Darcy takes one of Matlock’s horses and wanders though the Lake District on his way home to a lonely Pemberley. Elizabeth is with the Gardiner’s touring the Lake District. Darcy is caught in a thunderstorm and thrown from is horse. He is laying bleeding and unconscious. The Gardiner’s and Elizabeth take cover from the thunderstorm at an Inn. They then become aware of a spooked horse without a rider. The decision to go out into the storm to find the rider. When they return with a man it is discovered that it is Fitzwillliam Darcy. He is unconscious, feverish and bleeding from a head wound. He is placed in a room to recover until a doctor is fetched. Elizabeth watches over him alone in his room. We wakes and thinks he is haunted by seeing and hearing Elizabeths’ voice. They have a heart to heart talk and he admits he loves her. He recovers at the Inn with the Gardiner’s and Elizabeth. They all continue the tour of the Lake District and plan to stay at Pemberley. Elizabeth accepts Darcy and the decision to move to the Fox and Hound Inn in Lambton to continue their courtship. 7 hours later Lizzy get a letter at the Inn that changes their lives. Wickham has run away with Lydia. Wickham abandons Lydia in London. Lydia becomes under the protection of a Mr. Crawford. Elizabeth lies to Darcy and leaves to return to Longbourn. Mrs. Bennet dies from all of the stress over Lydia. Mr. Bennet decides to move his family to Cambridge. Darcy is so heartbroken and leaves England for 8 months to go sailing in the Mediterranean. Elizabeth gets invited to visits with some friends and leaves Cambridge. Darcy returns and makes a decision he will never have Elizabeth and he needs to move on with his life. He accepts a visit with friends and meets Elizabeth at the Monkfords. Darcy leaves after two days to return to Pemberley. Elizabeth request to return to Cambridge but the family stops at Pemberley. Can the stay a Pemberley reunite Darcy and Elizabeth? Is all lost forever?
Enjoy this story. It is on my list of favorite stories.
The story begins after the Hunsford rejection of Darcy’s proposal to Elizabeth. Darcy takes one of Matlock’s horses and wanders though the Lake District on his way home to a lonely Pemberley. Elizabeth is with the Gardiner’s touring the Lake District. Darcy is caught in a thunderstorm and thrown from is horse. He is laying bleeding and unconscious. The Gardiner’s and Elizabeth take cover from the thunderstorm at an Inn. They then become aware of a spooked horse without a rider. The decision to go out into the storm to find the rider. When they return with a man it is discovered that it is Fitzwillliam Darcy. He is unconscious, feverish and bleeding from a head wound. He is placed in a room to recover until a doctor is fetched. Elizabeth watches over him alone in his room. We wakes and thinks he is haunted by seeing and hearing Elizabeths’ voice. They have a heart to heart talk and he admits he loves her. He recovers at the Inn with the Gardiner’s and Elizabeth. They all continue the tour of the Lake District and plan to stay at Pemberley. Elizabeth accepts Darcy and the decision to move to the Fox and Hound Inn in Lambton to continue their courtship. 7 hours later Lizzy get a letter at the Inn that changes their lives. Wickham has run away with Lydia. Wickham abandons Lydia in London. Lydia becomes under the protection of a Mr. Crawford. Elizabeth lies to Darcy and leaves to return to Longbourn. Mrs. Bennet dies from all of the stress over Lydia. Mr. Bennet decides to move his family to Cambridge. Darcy is so heartbroken and leaves England for 8 months to go sailing in the Mediterranean. Elizabeth gets invited to visits with some friends and leaves Cambridge. Darcy returns and makes a decision he will never have Elizabeth and he needs to move on with his life. He accepts a visit with friends and meets Elizabeth at the Monkfords. Darcy leaves after two days to return to Pemberley. Elizabeth request to return to Cambridge but the family stops at Pemberley. Can the stay a Pemberley reunite Darcy and Elizabeth? Is all lost forever?
Enjoy this story. It is on my list of favorite stories.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 15, 2021
4.5 stars rounded up. I always enjoy this author’s books and couldn’t read this one fast enough. It’s exquisitely written, original and emotional. Many times I wanted to hear Darcy’s thoughts, though I could usually guess them. I particularly liked the chapter towards the end with Colonel Fitzwilliam and Darcy discussing his engagement. His simple declaration of “I need her” and his defense of their love was perfect. I wish there had been more about Bingley, instead of just a brief scene in the epilogue.
October 10, 2019
Romantic
I'm a big fan of this author, and she doesn't disappoint here. In this variation the circumstances of the meeting between Elizabeth and Darcy, after she rejects his proposal at Hunsford parsonage, and while she is traveling with the Gardiners in the north, is much more dramatic as Darcy is injured and is helped in his recovery by Elizabeth. She regrets her refusal, and is very open to a reconciliation with him until news of Lydia arrives, and this time it's much more serious and damaging. Lydia rejects her father's help, and takes up life as a courtesan, making it impossible for Elizabeth to consider involving Darcy in the disgrace to her whole family. She decides to make it easier for Darcy to give her up and move on, by lying and telling him she can't tolerate the difference in their social standings.
This idea is not new, and is very well developed by the author with all the raw emotion that this decision causes for both parties involved. However, the story is written almost completely from the POV of Elizabeth, and I think I would have liked to read more of the other side. Although it's only Elizabeth 's thoughts, she sure has a lot of them. In fact, I felt that the story dragged somewhat with long descriptions of inner struggles and conflicting thoughts going on in her mind. A lot of text was used up describing anguish, doubts, regrets, intentions, and arguments within herself, all important details, but too lengthy in the description. There were several places where I wished the action would move along more quickly.
At the critical point of the story, when the plot finally takes a turn towards resolution, all the waiting is rewarded with a wonderfully romantic sharp turn in the story, and Ms. Starnes shows her skill in crafting something beautiful. After a kind of slow, depressing start, this book becomes memorable, with scenes you'll want to revisit. I was glad I persevered, it is well written and well edited. I recommend it highly.
I'm a big fan of this author, and she doesn't disappoint here. In this variation the circumstances of the meeting between Elizabeth and Darcy, after she rejects his proposal at Hunsford parsonage, and while she is traveling with the Gardiners in the north, is much more dramatic as Darcy is injured and is helped in his recovery by Elizabeth. She regrets her refusal, and is very open to a reconciliation with him until news of Lydia arrives, and this time it's much more serious and damaging. Lydia rejects her father's help, and takes up life as a courtesan, making it impossible for Elizabeth to consider involving Darcy in the disgrace to her whole family. She decides to make it easier for Darcy to give her up and move on, by lying and telling him she can't tolerate the difference in their social standings.
This idea is not new, and is very well developed by the author with all the raw emotion that this decision causes for both parties involved. However, the story is written almost completely from the POV of Elizabeth, and I think I would have liked to read more of the other side. Although it's only Elizabeth 's thoughts, she sure has a lot of them. In fact, I felt that the story dragged somewhat with long descriptions of inner struggles and conflicting thoughts going on in her mind. A lot of text was used up describing anguish, doubts, regrets, intentions, and arguments within herself, all important details, but too lengthy in the description. There were several places where I wished the action would move along more quickly.
At the critical point of the story, when the plot finally takes a turn towards resolution, all the waiting is rewarded with a wonderfully romantic sharp turn in the story, and Ms. Starnes shows her skill in crafting something beautiful. After a kind of slow, depressing start, this book becomes memorable, with scenes you'll want to revisit. I was glad I persevered, it is well written and well edited. I recommend it highly.
September 14, 2019
A Wonderful Read
This is another great read from Joana Starnes. It starts with the premise that Mr Darcy is injured and ends up in the same inn as Elizabeth and the Gardiners. Just when things seem to be going right for Elizabeth and Darcy, things take more than a few turns along the way. There is enough differences in this novel to have kept me reading into the wee hours of the morning. It is well worth reading.
This is another great read from Joana Starnes. It starts with the premise that Mr Darcy is injured and ends up in the same inn as Elizabeth and the Gardiners. Just when things seem to be going right for Elizabeth and Darcy, things take more than a few turns along the way. There is enough differences in this novel to have kept me reading into the wee hours of the morning. It is well worth reading.
October 5, 2019
4.5 stars. Angsty and steamy!
October 13, 2019
Love love love
Awesome P&P alternative. Just the right amount of angst and of course the happily ever after.
A definite must read
Awesome P&P alternative. Just the right amount of angst and of course the happily ever after.
A definite must read
October 15, 2019
I have no original words to describe the story - amazing.
September 18, 2019
Joana Starnes did it again!!
Ms. Starnes' JAFF are among my favorite authors with Caitlin Williams. Any book she releases is an instant buy and read. With good reason. I know few authors able to convey the emotions and turmoils of ODC (Our Dear Couple) so well. Her novels are rollercoasters. The kind that leaves you aching, praying, crying of frustration, and then incandescently happy (I borrow Joe Wright's script for that one), giggling, swooning... All of it in the middle of the night because you can't put her books down.
This new P&P variation does not disappoint. I didn't think Ms. Starnes could move me more than she did with Mr Bennet's Dutiful Daughter. How wrong and naive I was!
The Journey Home To Pemberley: A Pride and Prejudice Variation starts with a well-known twist in JAFF: Darcy is injured post-HDP (Hunsford Disastrous Proposal) and Lizzy nurses him. From that point, staying true to canon, Ms. Starnes embarks us for a joyful reunion, full of hope and promises.
Only to crash our expectations in that dreadful inn at Lambton. And then the angst begins. Poor Darcy! Poor Lizzy! You understand them both, ache for them both. The level of angst becomes almost unbearable in Dorsetshire and above all in Pemberley. Ms. Starnes truly is at her best when she tortures her characters. I always have the acute sentiment TO BE them. That is true talent for an author. That line alone is a jewel.
Plus, she stays true to the characters in canon. I genuinely believe their reactions are the ones Jane Austen would write. You recognise Darcy's pride, the only feeling he can lean upon when he loses all hope. You admire Elizabeth's strength of character. Their fight does them justice. These two mulish characters would behave exactly that way in an Austen novel.
I will not disclose any further details for fear of spoiling the story. But beware if you start that book: you will hope, cry, laugh, cry again, of happiness this time, giggle like a schoolgirl ... The level of swoon when ODC is reunited matches the level of angst of the previous chapters , and that says a lot. or .
And suddenly every obstacle is crumbling by the force of their love and Darcy's constancy.
How I envy Elizabeth! Despite Darcy's reassurance it really is a dream for us, poor readers, to experience such emotions for real.
The best word I can think of to describe this story is "rollercoaster", so enjoy the ride. I know I did.
Ms. Starnes, please, don't leave us waiting too long before your next novel. I'm addicted to your prose.
Ms. Starnes' JAFF are among my favorite authors with Caitlin Williams. Any book she releases is an instant buy and read. With good reason. I know few authors able to convey the emotions and turmoils of ODC (Our Dear Couple) so well. Her novels are rollercoasters. The kind that leaves you aching, praying, crying of frustration, and then incandescently happy (I borrow Joe Wright's script for that one), giggling, swooning... All of it in the middle of the night because you can't put her books down.
This new P&P variation does not disappoint. I didn't think Ms. Starnes could move me more than she did with Mr Bennet's Dutiful Daughter. How wrong and naive I was!
The Journey Home To Pemberley: A Pride and Prejudice Variation starts with a well-known twist in JAFF: Darcy is injured post-HDP (Hunsford Disastrous Proposal) and Lizzy nurses him. From that point, staying true to canon, Ms. Starnes embarks us for a joyful reunion, full of hope and promises.
Only to crash our expectations in that dreadful inn at Lambton. And then the angst begins. Poor Darcy! Poor Lizzy! You understand them both, ache for them both. The level of angst becomes almost unbearable in Dorsetshire and above all in Pemberley. Ms. Starnes truly is at her best when she tortures her characters. I always have the acute sentiment TO BE them. That is true talent for an author. That line alone is a jewel.
Plus, she stays true to the characters in canon. I genuinely believe their reactions are the ones Jane Austen would write. You recognise Darcy's pride, the only feeling he can lean upon when he loses all hope. You admire Elizabeth's strength of character. Their fight does them justice. These two mulish characters would behave exactly that way in an Austen novel.
I will not disclose any further details for fear of spoiling the story. But beware if you start that book: you will hope, cry, laugh, cry again, of happiness this time, giggle like a schoolgirl ... The level of swoon when ODC is reunited matches the level of angst of the previous chapters , and that says a lot. or .
And suddenly every obstacle is crumbling by the force of their love and Darcy's constancy.
How I envy Elizabeth! Despite Darcy's reassurance it really is a dream for us, poor readers, to experience such emotions for real.
The best word I can think of to describe this story is "rollercoaster", so enjoy the ride. I know I did.
Ms. Starnes, please, don't leave us waiting too long before your next novel. I'm addicted to your prose.
September 20, 2019
A good story...
... full of angst and despair, with a predictable HEA. My only complaint, really, is that the author belabors Elizabeths thought processes with so many words that it is difficult to keep track of the conversation that is happening on the page, amidst the one taking place in Elizabeths mind. When Darcy and Elizabeth finally have their reckoning, I admit to wishing Darcy could keep her on tenterhooks a bit longer, just to see her squirm a bit more, after being so reckless in her decision making. The author writes really delicious kissing scenes... yet doesn’t take them further. I’m always irritated when that happens because I feel like it’s bending to a certain consumer. I guess the author knows her audience and what gets their nose out of joint. Sweet-tea readers and pearl-clutchers will appreciate the
... yeah, I didn’t appreciate the interruption, either.
... full of angst and despair, with a predictable HEA. My only complaint, really, is that the author belabors Elizabeths thought processes with so many words that it is difficult to keep track of the conversation that is happening on the page, amidst the one taking place in Elizabeths mind. When Darcy and Elizabeth finally have their reckoning, I admit to wishing Darcy could keep her on tenterhooks a bit longer, just to see her squirm a bit more, after being so reckless in her decision making. The author writes really delicious kissing scenes... yet doesn’t take them further. I’m always irritated when that happens because I feel like it’s bending to a certain consumer. I guess the author knows her audience and what gets their nose out of joint. Sweet-tea readers and pearl-clutchers will appreciate the
... yeah, I didn’t appreciate the interruption, either.
September 19, 2019
The book had all my attention from the first page. The author has such an exact knowledge of the various locations - I felt as if I were right there at the K.P. Inn with Lizzy and her relations and a certain gentleman.
The local accents (Lakeland and Derbyshire) given to various people in the book is such a sweet touch. I loved it.
The book had me on an emotional rollercoaster - from sheer joy to vexation to actual tears rolling down my cheeks... it doesn't happen often that a book takes such an effect on me.
My best part of the book is when Lizzy and FD meet in a certain personal room...ahhh utterly charming scenes await the new reader.
The book is bound to be enjoyed by all who will read it.
The local accents (Lakeland and Derbyshire) given to various people in the book is such a sweet touch. I loved it.
The book had me on an emotional rollercoaster - from sheer joy to vexation to actual tears rolling down my cheeks... it doesn't happen often that a book takes such an effect on me.
My best part of the book is when Lizzy and FD meet in a certain personal room...ahhh utterly charming scenes await the new reader.
The book is bound to be enjoyed by all who will read it.
October 20, 2019
I would say 2.5 stars. The lengthy inner dialogue stretched on and on, it could have been cut shorter and more interaction could have taken its place. I did not like the addition of the POV of Mr. Howard and Mrs. Reynolds, I thought they did not really lend anything the story but to fill up space. I enjoyed chapters 1-9 but the chapters following were excruciating long, frustrating, and sad..., until chapter 16. After that, any interaction with Darcy and Elizabeth were looked forward to while the other characters and situations just filled space. I did not think the addition of Ms. Roscoe and Ameila Monkford and felt they could have added to the story better or been left out. Although I loved Meg.
September 13, 2019
The long way home.......
Satisfying amount of D &E page time together - a bit more from Elizabeth's POV. Plenty of angst that Joana so masterfully wrings from ODC and ourselves, but we are also treated to tender and some deliciously spicy (not explicit) moments where they openly speak (and show) their love to each other head-on. Most of the characters from canon are touched on, some very briefly, along with a few new. Many plots, locations, and timelines are changed up, but for me P&P faithfully shines through.
I followed and was totally hooked by a few excerpts Joana shared before the book's release and I thoroughly enjoyed the entire read - straight through!
Satisfying amount of D &E page time together - a bit more from Elizabeth's POV. Plenty of angst that Joana so masterfully wrings from ODC and ourselves, but we are also treated to tender and some deliciously spicy (not explicit) moments where they openly speak (and show) their love to each other head-on. Most of the characters from canon are touched on, some very briefly, along with a few new. Many plots, locations, and timelines are changed up, but for me P&P faithfully shines through.
I followed and was totally hooked by a few excerpts Joana shared before the book's release and I thoroughly enjoyed the entire read - straight through!
September 25, 2019
Another winner from the 'pen' of Joana Starnes.
This work kept me enthralled from the very first page to the last. There was lots of angst involving a very convoluted journey to the HEA of ODC. There were several surprises along the way, especially that involving one of the regular cast of characters, but I won't give away any spoilers.
If you have never read Joana Starnes before then this would be an excellent book to start with, and for those who are fans like myself, all I can say is that you won't be disappointed.
A very easy to award 5 stars. 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
This work kept me enthralled from the very first page to the last. There was lots of angst involving a very convoluted journey to the HEA of ODC. There were several surprises along the way, especially that involving one of the regular cast of characters, but I won't give away any spoilers.
If you have never read Joana Starnes before then this would be an excellent book to start with, and for those who are fans like myself, all I can say is that you won't be disappointed.
A very easy to award 5 stars. 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
September 23, 2019
Fantastic story!
I absolutely loved this. A well-written, beautiful story of Darcy and Elizabeth fighting their way back to each other. ❤
I absolutely loved this. A well-written, beautiful story of Darcy and Elizabeth fighting their way back to each other. ❤
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